大象传媒

The pursuit of pleasure in our modern capitalist society is inextricably linked to money. Our consumerist culture has convinced us that pleasure can only be had from luxurious resort stays, wine country tours, or professional massage sessions.

But there are ways to incorporate pleasure in our lives that don鈥檛 impact labor rights, the environment, or our own financial bottom lines. It turns out, pleasure can be had for nothing, and, indeed, may be even more pleasurable by the simple fact that it costs nothing.

大象传媒 Editors share their favorite鈥攁nd free鈥攑ursuits of pleasure, offering you inspiration to find your own.

Walking to the bus stop is good exercise, even when I think I鈥檓 not in the mood. I may set out in the rain but then the sun breaks through, or I get out at an unfamiliar bus stop and find a fantastic sunset view. Being prepared for routine and then finding unexpected pleasures makes taking public transportation a small adventure. 
鈥擵alerie Schloredt

One of my passions is reading fiction. I try to set aside an hour each day鈥攗sually before I go to sleep鈥攖o read a novel or short stories. The demands of everyday life can be overwhelming, and as a journalist I have to do a lot of reading for work and to keep up with current events. Forcing myself to disconnect from all that and dwell in someone else鈥檚 world for a bit is both satisfying and relaxing. 
鈥擟hris Winters

I don鈥檛 have a garden, but I do have houseplants, and I love repotting plant cuttings for friends. Truly the gift that keeps on giving!
鈥擪jerstin Johnson

I love to crochet for pleasure! I buy my yarn on the cheap from a local nonprofit thrift store in Pasadena, California, called Remainders that resells artists鈥� overstock supplies. I learn crochet designs from a free YouTube channel, . I sell my hats at local craft fairs and use the proceeds to buy more yarn. I like to think of it as financially sustainable art therapy.
鈥擲onali Kolhatkar

I started a love affair with seasonal flowers and trees after moving to the Pacific Northwest. It began during the pandemic: I鈥檇 walk around my neighborhood and notice that one week the daffodils were blooming, while the next cherry blossoms had exploded, followed by magnolias. I find calm and balance as I focus on the fragrance, the texture, and the colors surrounding me. 
鈥擲unnivie Brydum

I keep a guitar near my (work-from-home) desk. I鈥檝e played the instrument for decades, but outside of any organized band or rehearsal session, I get a little boost of pleasure just running my fingers up and down the neck, whether I鈥檓 playing scales, noodling aimlessly, or figuring out a song that got stuck in my head. Even during the workday, a five-minute fingerboard break is enough to reset my mood and renew my focus. 
鈥擟hris Winters

I like spending time in communal spaces鈥攚hat remains of 鈥渢he commons.鈥� This includes my public library and public parks, where I can take a walk, eat meals, or meet friends. 
鈥擪jerstin Johnson

I often need to disconnect from the commercial world, so I make a habit of turning off all notifications and abstaining from social media and cable programming. Then, I reconnect to the natural world, taking long walks or enjoying free public parks and garden spaces. I take the time to look at the sky, feel the breeze, and listen to and watch birds and other critters.
鈥擭atalie Pryor

Toddler time: Taking my kiddo to the park, holding her hand as she practices her 鈥渂alance beam鈥� skills on retaining walls, and catching her at the bottom of the big-kid slide bring me such joy. Silly smiles and belly laughs from a small person elicit some of the most uncomplicated, pure pleasure I鈥檝e experienced. 
鈥擲unnivie Brydum

Rather than spending money on trendy 鈥渋mmersive鈥� art exhibits that are all the rage these days, a lot of fine art can be enjoyed for free. Most art museums have 鈥渇ree days鈥� each month, allowing families to enjoy art for free. As a bonus, those receiving government SNAP benefits can also enjoy low-cost or free museum entrance tickets via .
鈥擲onali Kolhatkar